As it is my first time to speak in the House, I take this opportunity, first, to thank the people of Meath East for allowing me the privilege and the honour of representing them in Dáil Éireann

Deputy Helen McEntee asked the Minister for Education and Skills Ruairí Quinn if he will give an assurance to all those affected by Down syndrome that the awaited National Council for Special Education report on whether Down syndrome should be reclassified as a low-incidence disability in all incidents regardless of assessed cognitive ability will be examined and acted upon by his office promptly on receipt of the report

Fine Gael Louth Deputy, Peter Fitzpatrick, said the visit by the Health Ministers from North and South of the border, Edwin Poots MLA and James Reilly TD to Louth this week has brought a renewed focus to the importance of cross border health projects, the aim of which is to enhance the services available to all users.

Fine Gael Carlow/Kilkenny TD, Pat Deering, has today (Thursday) urged Teagasc to organise briefing sessions in local livestock marts for farmers being adversely affected by fodder shortages. Deputy Deering added that this would make the necessary information more accessible for farmers who need to get their fodder stocks up to acceptable levels.

Fine Gael Meath East TD, Regina Doherty, has today (Thursday) urged volunteer and community workers based in Meath to check out a new course being run by Meath Partnership and the National University of Ireland (NUI) Maynooth. The certificate programme is entitled ‘Community Work in a Changing Meath’.

Speaking in the Dail yesterday evening Fine Gael Mayo Deputy, Michelle Mulherin, said that now that the fodder crisis is abating, we need to look at maximising the grass growing potential of our land so that a similar crisis can be avoided next year.

Frances Fitzgerald TD, Minister for Children & Youth Affairs has today welcomed the increased debate in recent days over the possible provision of a second free pre-school year.